Chris Rodriguez has been taking reps with the first team in training camp

The Washington Football Team Commanders selected Kentucky’s Chris Rodriguez in the 6th round of the 2023 NFL draft. While a run-heavy scheme like Washington’s looks great for a power running back like C-Rod, it is hard to look past the plethora of other ball carriers in the Washington backfield with which Rodriguez has to compete.

Yet, compete he has.

According to those familiar with training camp, Rodriguez took several snaps with the first team offense on day three, leading the same observer to think not only would he make the 53-man roster, but he could also see a bit of action this season.

The Commanders have six running backs participating in training camp this offseason, including their prized rusher, Brian Robinson, and their dependable fourth-year player, Antonio Gibson. They also have Jonathan Williams, Alex Armah, and Jaret Patterson petitioning for a job.

With all that talent, the fact Chris Rodriguez is getting time in with the first string bodes well for his future with the team. One of the difference makers in his ascension up the depth chart might be his hands. Reports out of training camp suggest his pass-catching ability is far better than what scouts perceived throughout the pre-draft process.

One fantasy football analyst even went as far as saying there is a non-zero chance Rodriguez contends with Brian Robinson as the highest-scoring fantasy back on that team.

C-Rod left Kentucky as the 3rd-best rusher (yardage-wise) in school history and looks to take the same toughness that made things difficult for SEC defenses into the NFL, and we might get to see it more often than we thought once the season begins.

We’ll get our first look at Rodriguez in a Commanders uniform when Washington plays the Cleveland Browns, on Friday, August 11 in the team’s preseason debut.